US Labor Department provides funding to continue assisting workers affected by base realignment and closure actions at Fort Monmouth in New Jersey

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1.5 million National Emergency Grant incremental award to assist workers affected by the closure of Fort Monmouth in New Jersey. Under this grant, about 1,345 workers to be dislocated between now and September 2011 will be provided with training and re-employment services over the next year.

"The Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission must make difficult choices to reorganize defense facilities. Those choices impact not only military personnel but the entire community surrounding a base," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to providing the funding necessary for individuals affected by base closings to update their skill sets and find new employment."

Awarded to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, today's increment of $1.5 million brings the total amount of funding by the Labor Department related to Fort Monmouth base realignment and closure actions to $3,803,164. In 2006 and 2007, the state was approved for a total of $803,164 to develop a strategic plan addressing both the workforce and economic issues related to the closing of Fort Monmouth. On Nov. 18, 2008, the state was approved for funding in the amount of $3 million, with $1.5 million released initially, to begin providing services to BRAC-impacted workers. The increment being announced today represents the other half of that $3 million award.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.